by Janice M Taylor
“Do not strengthen the horse!” The words that came out of my mouth when my teenage son boasted about how fit and strong his gelding was becoming as he trained him. I was trying to explain to him that it was important for the horse first to learn healthy behaviors and heal from trauma before strengthening it. He could strengthen the gelding once healthy behaviors, boundaries, and obedience are established. By exhibiting a new pattern of behavior, the horse could achieve remarkable capabilities. Otherwise, the horse might become too powerful and cause harm to itself or others.
Speaking to my son one time, was not enough. As I reminded him to stop strengthening the horse, the Holy Spirit spoke to me and said, “Stop asking me to strengthen you.” My response was, “Your word says that if we need something, to ask (Philippians 4:6). Therefore, I am asking you to strengthen me as a life coach so that I may empower families and organizations caring for children. It is for your glory.” He responded, “There are thought processes and trauma in you that first need to heal. If I strengthen you before the healing occurs, you will bring harm to yourself and negatively impact others.” Ouch! His words cut deep. I am glad they did! I love God too much not to listen to his counsel. I do want to glorify Him with my work, for His word says:
“He takes no pleasure in the strength of a horse or in human might. No, the LORD’S delight is in those who fear him, those who put their hope in his unfailing love” (Psalms 147:10-11, NLT).
This experience prompted me to reflect on my coaching practice. At times, I receive requests from potential clients for a discovery call to aid them in accomplishing a goal that they feel will empower them. However, as I coach them to find the underlying motivation behind their goal, I may discover that unhealthy behaviors are present that could have negative consequences for themselves and others. Then, I am faced with the decision to continue supporting the client in their pursuit of the goal, despite knowing that it could be harmful, or offer an opportunity for them to exceed their current potential by bringing awareness to the red flags.
This decision is difficult when there is a need for financial provision. Then I am reminded of Philippians 2:13 “For God is working in you, giving you the desire and power to do what pleases him.” Surrendering to God places one in a position to be provided for, empowered, and strengthened by Him.
- What is your motive for seeking God’s strength and anointing?
- Is there anything that needs to be healed within you?
- How can healing propel you forward in your relationship with the Lord and others?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Janice M. Taylor is a Christian Life/Parent Coach and the founder of Taylor-ing Your Life, LLC. She holds a BS in Psychology: Life Coaching from Liberty University and is a certified trainer in the Nurtured Heart Approach®. Janice works with families, educators, and professionals to equip them with skills to redirect the negative behaviors of children with ADHD, PTSD, Autism, Adoption, ODD, and other social behavioral intensities into constructive actions. Additionally, she provides a roadmap for women going through life transitions and those
